'I just feel better As a Woman'

Angela Malo is getting in better shape by taking it outside with a no-machines approach

Angela Malo's reluctance to enter a gym -- due to embarrassment about her size -- interfered with her motivation to exercise. That's why her weight-loss program with Trevor and Barclay Spring was the perfect solution.

The Spring brothers, both certified personal trainers who run Adapt Fitness, work with Malo outdoors, where they hike Oahu's trails, throw an 8-pound medicine ball (with lots of squats and twists), pull resistance bands, jog and generally have fun.

"I'd never been hiking or jogging until I met these guys. Now I actually look forward to training," said Malo, a single mother trying to set the right example for her 13-year-old son and 5-year-old daughter. "I don't want my kids to struggle with weight like I did."

For Malo, 36, it's been a lifelong battle. When her boss at Wahoo's Fish Taco, Stephanie Pietsch, introduced Malo to Trevor and Barclay Spring in January, the 5-foot-7 Malo wore a size 26.

COURTESY PHOTOMalo wore a size 26 before she started training. That's her with her friend Erica Bachinski. CLICK FOR LARGE

"I know I've lost weight because of the clothing," she said. Though she refuses to look at the scale, she confirmed that she now shops for a size 20. According to Trevor, who keeps track of the numbers, she's lost 26 pounds and gained muscle, transforming her body shape dramatically.

But the journey hasn't been easy. Trevor admitted that one month into the program, Malo became "totally discouraged for about three weeks." They convinced her these feelings were part of the process, and encouraged her to continue what sometimes looks like child's play.

"We don't use machines," said Barclay, 25, "and we can train the whole body with minimal equipment."

Trevor, 28, added, "The best way to get strong is to control your own body."

Malo altered her diet, too, and she won't hesitate to call Barclay or Trevor to inquire about what she should (and should not) eat or drink. She often eats at Wahoo's, where she shuns fried food in favor of the ample supply of lean fare. Protein comes from black beans and chicken or fish, and she watches portions carefully -- a new habit.

"Because of the knowledge they've given me ... mentally, I've changed," she said. "Before, I never wanted to do anything. Now I have more energy, and I don't have to use Starbucks as a crutch! All around, I just feel better as a woman. And I can't wait to fit into all those nice clothes I see everyone wearing."

The Star-Bulletin will follow Angela Malo's progress in occasional features as she works toward her goal of becoming a healthy, fit woman.